Grow Home Baltimore (growhomebaltimore.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting community-led programs that cultivate open spaces, empower resident leaders, and provide youth with accessible opportunities for recreation and first-time employment—all guided by principles of equity and empowerment.

Grow Home Baltimore has worked hand-in-hand with Baltimore residents to transform underused public spaces into vibrant green centers for urban farming, community athletics, and outdoor enjoyment, fostering healthier neighborhoods across the city.

At the heart of this impactful work are two outstanding people whose dedication and passion are helping to shape a greener future for Baltimore: Crew Lead Heather Caprio and program graduate Erick Deleon.

Heather Caprio has been a dynamic force within Grow Home Baltimore’s crew, quickly proving herself as an emerging leader in the organization. She consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating unwavering commitment to every project and team member. Her deep passion for her career shines through in everything she does, inspiring those around her and driving meaningful progress in the organization’s mission to create sustainable, community-driven green spaces.

Erick Deleon is a young man with a heart of gold whose passion for mastering the green career field has been unmistakable since he joined Grow Home Baltimore in 2024. His genuine excitement about making the world a greener, more sustainable place is truly infectious, motivating everyone he works with daily.

As a proud graduate of the program, Erick continues to embody the spirit of service and environmental stewardship that defines Grow Home Baltimore. Erick currently is employed at Rawlings Conservatory in Baltimore.

Grow Home Baltimore is incredibly proud of both Heather and Erick. Their leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment exemplify the very best of what the organization strives to nurture in its crew and alumni.

Both Heather and Erick are currently enrolled in the University of Maryland Extension’s Master Gardener Program, a cornerstone initiative that perfectly aligns with Grow Home Baltimore’s focus on sustainable urban greening.

The Master Gardener Program trains volunteers to become community educators in safe, sustainable horticultural practices that support healthy gardens, landscapes, and neighborhoods throughout Maryland including right here in Baltimore City. Open to anyone passionate about plants, people, and the environment, the program delivers comprehensive training in horticulture topics such as plant science, soil health, and integrated pest management.

Once certified, participants commit to volunteer service by staffing plant clinics, tending demonstration gardens, delivering workshops and speaking engagements, and supporting school programs.

This hands-on experience not only deepens participants’ expertise but also equips them with valuable skills for careers in horticulture, environmental stewardship, and green industries. Through ongoing education and real-world application, the program empowers individuals like Heather and Erick to share science-based gardening knowledge that strengthens communities and promotes long-term environmental health.

Heather’s proven leadership and Erick’s infectious enthusiasm, now amplified by the rigorous training and volunteer opportunities of the Master Gardener Program, position them to make an even greater impact. Grow Home Baltimore extends its heartfelt congratulations to these two standout team members and looks forward to witnessing their continued growth as they help build a greener, more vibrant Baltimore for all.